The “Builder-Grade” Reboot: Customizing New Construction Landscaping in Round Rock

The “Builder-Grade” Reboot: Customizing New Construction Landscaping in Round Rock

From University Boulevard and developments along SH-130, to vibrant Vizcaya, Round Rock, Texas, is a hub of growth when it comes to new master-planned communities. These areas are showcasing homes featuring energy-efficient features, modern floor plans, and fresh takes on paint. While homeowner energy and excitement are certainly high, there’s room for even more to look forward to when it comes to landscaping. At Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape, we see the full potential in these up-and-coming communities, and we can’t wait to take it on!

Generic Design Plans Don’t Make the Cut

Typically, new construction homes are designed with a minimal “builder package” in place. This often includes a few shrubs, two small trees, and a thin layer of mulch and sod over soil. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for these design plans to result in undercut details like irrigation heads that are misaligned or flower beds that are noticeably too small. Overall, these generic landscaping plans can feel impersonal and cookie-cutter, compared to the time and attention going into the building of a new home.

Going Above and Beyond for Exterior Appeal

At Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape, we believe every new construction home deserves better. We’re committed to providing a “Builder-Grade” reboot and customizing new construction landscaping with thoughtful design, quality materials, high-quality installation, and HOA-friendly planning in place. When we take on a project for landscaping in Round Rock , we go in dedicated to turning generic yards into fully customized outdoor spaces that homeowners can be proud of.

Beyond the Basics: Replacing Builder-Grade Landscape with HOA-Compliant Designs and Privacy Trees

Far too often, builder-installed landscaping simply falls short of any standard of excellence homeowners are expecting. This is because builder landscaping is ultimately designed with speed and cost efficiency at the top of the priority list. What’s overlooked is curb appeal, longevity, and the homeowner's needs. As a result, it’s not uncommon to see some serious landscaping issues show up within the first year when corners like these are cut from day one.

Poor Soil Prep Under the Sod is a Big Issue

It’s become common practice within the minimal “builder package” to lay sod directly over compacted construction soil. Oftentimes, this is done without proper tilling, grading, or composting. This problematically leads lawns to really struggle to take root. Homeowners will also quickly notice drainage issues across their yard. Other notable problems that come from poor soil prep under the sod can include pools of standing water, areas of patchy grass, and thinning turf.

Picking Non-Native Plants in the Name of Saving Money is Problematic

Yet another issue that commonly arises out of the minimal “builder package” approach is a collection of plants surrounding a new construction home that don’t last for a full year. This comes down to the fact that many of these plants are non-native to the area, and simply can’t endure the weather conditions ahead. Instead of being selected for quality, they’re chosen for their minimal price point and ease of installation. Picking plants that can’t succeed in the region you’re landscaping drastically reduces curb appeal around a residence. Long-lasting landscaping requires more attention to detail, with a focus on native plant installation that is suitable for:

• Successful growth over time
• Extensive sun exposure
• Soil compatibility
• Water efficiency
• HOA design requirements

At Oak Grove Lawn and Landscaping, picking plants that will last over convenient plants to install is a priority for our team. We believe homeowners deserve to enjoy plants at their new construction home that last well beyond the first season.

Issues That Arise from Inefficient Spray Heads and Irrigation Layouts

Far too often, builders looking to save time are willing to install irrigation systems well before final grading is complete. It doesn’t take long to see the issues arise from this choice when:

• Plant beds are underwatered
• Turf is over-watered
• Heads spray fences, rather than plants
• Overspray carries onto sidewalks

These are just some of the unfortunate results homeowners might notice from a poorly zoned irrigation system. Over time, this not only wastes water but also substantially increases utility bills for homeowners.

Strategic Privacy Screening for New Subdivisions

Many conversations in new Round Rock developments these days revolve around issues of space. While the homes going up are certainly beautiful, they’re also situated close to one another. This can lead to fence lines feeling tight and outdoor living spaces lacking privacy. Homeowners might also not love second-story windows overlooking the backyards of their neighbors and vice versa.

Try Tree Installation for Natural Screening Solutions

At Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape, we know how important a sense of privacy and comfort is for homeowners in Round Rock and surrounding communities. We’re here to help implement landscaping solutions that look beautiful and prove effective. Our team can help plant fast-growing, native, and HOA-approved privacy trees for homeowners looking for some relief when it comes to proximity to neighbors. As these trees grow, they create privacy without overwhelming the sense of tranquility in the yard. They can effectively block neighboring windows, enhance aesthetics, and even soften surrounding noises over time. Some popular native species options include:

• Yaupon Holly
• Eastern Red Cedar
• Nellie R. Stevens Holly
• Wax Myrtle

Opting to invest in native species that thrive in the heat and soil of Central Texas is important in areas like Round Rock, where water restrictions are often in place. These native trees can also help deter certain invasive species, maintaining the integrity of landscaping for years to come.

Expanding the Patio: Builders Pour the Smallest Slab Possible

It’s not uncommon for homeowners of new construction residences to be left wanting when it comes to the size of their standard patio. In many cases, these end up being nothing more than a 10x10 concrete slab that’s been poured with just enough room for a few chairs and possibly a grill… if they’re lucky. Understandably, homeowners are looking for much more in terms of quality and space, and this simply isn’t enough to satisfy.

Hardscaping & Paver Extensions Can be a Great Solution

When a standard concrete slab is a problem, the team at Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape can help homeowners expand their outdoor living spaces with durable, beautiful, and effective solutions. These can include:

• Paver patio extensions
• Walkways and seating areas
• Overlay systems to match brick and surrounding stones
• Edging and borders for a more finished look

Pavers successfully add square footage to outdoor patios while also incorporating texture and warmth to the overall outdoor aesthetic. Investing in professional hardscaping can also improve the resale value of a new construction property over time. When Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape installs this upgrade, we aim for a patio that’s comfortable, spacious, and intentional. We never go ahead with a project without considering HOA guidelines, potential drainage issues, sun exposure, furniture layout, and of course, room for that family grill!

The Importance of Irrigation Audits for New Builds

Irrigation commonly sits at the top of the list as one of the most overlooked issues when it comes to new construction landscaping. Far too often, builders in a rush or under cost constraints rush installation with less-than-ideal results in their wake. It doesn’t take long for homeowners to find they’re faced with wasteful water systems, high utility bills, and irrigation setups that fail to support overall plant health. Common problems with rushed installation can include:

• Foundation plantings that are severely underwatered
• Irrigation heads that aren’t aimed at plants
• Zones that mix beds and turf
• Street spraying
• Leaks form joints that have been poorly glued together

These seemingly small issues can become big and costly problems over time. This is something no new construction homeowner should have to deal with.

Count on Oak Grove’s Comprehensive Irrigation System Audit

When you partner with Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape, you’ll find we value the details that matter most. That’s why we implement a comprehensive irrigation system audit on the landscape projects we take on. Our team performs a full system evaluation that looks at:

• Spray head alignment
• Pressure adjustments
• Property watering coverage
• Separate bed and turf zones
• Plant health
• Water waste reduction

This is important for homeowners who are looking to make the most of water-efficient landscaping. We also find that it greatly benefits those who are investing in drought-tolerant designs.

Navigating the Round Rock HOA Approval Process

Round Rock is a great place to live, but it’s important to note that communities here have a reputation for thriving under strict HOA guidelines. These rules help maintain the aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods, but they have to be carefully taken into account when it comes to quality landscaping. That’s where our team at Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape comes in and makes the process simple, streamlined, and stress-free. We take on the entire process, including:

• Verifying bed sizes and tree placements meet regulations
• Selecting plant species that are approved by the HOA
• Preparing HOA-approved designs
• Communicating with review boards along the way
• Providing proper documentation for changes to hardscape or irrigation systems

Above all, our goal is to ensure the landscaping process is compliant and focused on quality. Our approach to navigating the Round Rock HOA approval process ensures homeowners can enjoy the changes we make without having to worry about delays in seeing great results.

Incorporating Water-Wise Design: Xeriscaping Options Available for Central Texas

When new construction homeowners are looking to make significant landscaping improvements in Round Rock, Austin, and beyond, Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape is here to help. We’ve found that water-efficient landscaping solutions like xeriscaping can provide exciting and successful results. Xeriscaping in Austin, Round Rock, or other Central Texas destinations is a sustainable way to reduce irrigation practices in drought-prone areas. When implemented correctly, native plants are paired with mulch, drip systems, and soil amendments to create low-maintenance landscaping options that save on cost and water over-time. Austin Texas xeriscaping is becoming an increasingly popular choice among homeowners. Beyond xeriscape in Austin , homeowners in Round Rock are also reaping the benefits of this water conservation technique.

Your Customized New Build is on the Horizon

When you reach out to Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape for a customized approach to landscaping at your new build home, we’ll deliver results that are sure to inspire. Our full landscape reboot includes expanded beds for more curb appeal, tilling, grading, and composting for healthier plants, and the inclusion of native plants for longevity, beauty, and drought tolerance, too. Our full landscape reboot also comes with options to incorporate:

• Privacy trees for added seclusion
• Irrigation optimization to conserve water
• Hardscaping enhancements for walkways, patios, and seating areas
• HOA-approved plans from start to finish

Homeowners who invest in this kind of upgrade will enjoy time in a home that’s built around quality and eye-catching as well. The changes we implement will increase the value of your property and lower maintenance needs and costs over time. We’re here to create more usable space, with a firm focus on landscape lighting and design that really makes you feel at home.

Don’t Settle for the Bare Minimum. Let’s Turn Your New Build into a Custom Home

When you’re ready to truly transform your new build in Round Rock into something that’s exceptionally special, the team at Oak Grove Lawn and Landscape has you covered. Here, we know you don’t deserve the bare minimum when it comes to landscaping at your new property. That’s why we have the approach in place to bring your landscaping to life in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and long-term value for potential resale down the road. We invite you to reach out to our team today to learn more about our comprehensive service options. We would love to go into more detail around how we can help you not only improve your landscaping, but also really enjoy your home in a way you might even have realized was possible. Here, we’re authentically passionate about the work we do and the people and places we serve. Our commitment to quality is unwavering, and we look forward to helping you transform your landscaping with a focus on conservation, efficiency, beauty, and longevity.